Solar Hot Water:

Solar hot water works by pumping water into the solar panels, and when solar energy is not available, a booster system like a continuous flow hot water system attached to the heater tank kicks in to heat the water.

• Pros: It’s efficient and harnesses free energy from the sun. When water runs out, you still have an efficient booster to help when the sun is not shining.

• Cons: It’s expensive, around 4-5 times the cost of regular hot water systems. You only get the benefit of the sun when it’s shining, meaning it operates like a regular system when the sun isn’t out, and probably the biggest con for us is that the panels are constantly bombarded by the sun and heat and then the cold of the night which wears things out quickly which means you will be paying more for maintenance and plumbers will charge more to service something that is on a roof as opposed to being on the ground.

Hot Water Storage Tanks: Gas vs Electric:

Both types work similarly, with gas heating up using gas and electric heating up using an electrode.

• Pros: If you already have a storage tank, swapping it is cheaper.

• Cons: Tanks need maintenance to prevent corrosion, and they’re inefficient as they constantly heat and cool water, even when not in use.

Heat Pump:

Modern heat pumps are more efficient, using outside air to help heat the tank, but there’s debate about their effectiveness.

• Pros: Government rebates are available, and they can be efficient on humid days.

• Cons: They may have more failures due to most companies installing cheaper systems to the rebates look more attractive, so make sure you know what you are getting if you choose to get a hot water heat pump through a rebate. Repairs may require a refrigerator mechanic as this is the primary way the water heater operates.

Instant/Continuous Flow:

Continuous flow systems are becoming more popular due to their efficiency.

• Pros: They only use energy when turned on, eliminating wasted energy.

• Cons: Mainly gas-powered, so they can’t offset solar energy. Installation can be more expensive if switching from a storage tank.